Toshan Lake — A Perfect Destination for an Unforgettable Nature Trip in the Province

Choosing a tourist spot in Golestan Province is not easy, as this province is full of beautiful natural attractions, making it almost impossible to choose just one. However, Toshan can be one of the best choices, as in addition to its spectacular nature, it also offers opportunities for activities such as fishing and mountaineering. 

Where is Toshan located?

Toshan is a village in Gorgan County, Golestan Province, with a population of over one thousand people. Golestan is one of the three northern provinces of Iran, bordered by Mazandaran Province and the Caspian Sea to the west. This province has an ancient history and is referred to in historical documents as the “Province of Gorgan” or “Astarabad.” Archaeological findings show that human settlement in this region dates back about seven thousand years. It is also said that the Parthian kings (247–224 BC) used this area as their spring and summer residence. In later periods, including the Sassanid era (3rd–7th centuries AD), Gorgan continued to attract the attention of Persian kings. During that time, fortifications were built to protect the region from the invasions of foreign tribes. Today, the province consists of 14 counties and 29 cities. About two-thirds of its population are Shia Muslims, while one-third are Sunni Muslims. Although various industries exist in the province, the main economic activities of its people are agriculture and animal husbandry.

Toshen village is located to the south of Gorgan city, about five kilometers away. This area boasts beautiful and impressive nature, offering visitors one of their most memorable ecotourism experiences. To the south of the village lies Toshen Lake, also known as the Abbandan. To reach the lake, you need to travel along a short road, the final section of which is unpaved and winding. Under normal conditions, the route is accessible by any vehicle, but on rainy days, when the road becomes muddy and slippery, it can be a bit challenging to traverse. If you travel from Gorgan toward Toshen, it will take you less than 20 minutes, and along the way, you’ll be surrounded by peaceful, lush, and scenic landscapes.

Toshen Lake and Its Unique Nature

 This small lake lies 250 meters above sea level, with a length of about 300 meters and a width of 130 meters. Its depth varies from 2 to 25 meters. The lake is actually a reservoir behind a historic earthen dam, fed by a spring known as Do Barar. It is surrounded on three sides by forests and pastures. The spring emerges near the Alangdareh Forest Park, which, with an area of 185 square kilometers, is recognized as one of Iran’s exemplary tourist destinations. The Qalashi River runs through the park from south to north, dividing it into eastern and western parts. The main trees found in this park include hornbeam, alder, maple, oak, willow, and milkweed. The vegetation around Toshen Lake mainly consists of these same species. The spring water flows into this lake after traveling a short distance. The water is so clear and transparent that the fish in the stream can be easily seen. Fishing in Toshen Lake is not prohibited, so enthusiasts usually bring their fishing rods to try their luck. Despite its small size, the lake hosts a remarkable diversity of fish species, to the extent that some consider it one of the main recreational fishing spots in the province. There are also suitable recreational centers and facilities located close to Toshen Lake.

The best time to visit this area is spring and summer. During spring, there may be heavy and sudden rain showers, while in the hot summer days, the weather becomes humid, which might not appeal to everyone. However, one should not overlook the beauty of the lake in autumn, when the trees surrounding it are adorned with colorful autumn leaves, doubling its charm. At various times of the year—especially in summer—the lake also hosts flocks of migratory birds, adding to its natural allure.